FORMER Crymych and Whitland ladies player Lleucu George is thrilled to have taken up the latest Wales Women retainer contract.
The Gloucester-Hartpury outside-half, who started playing for Crymych under 8s before moving on to Whitland Ladies, said: “It’s amazing, I really wasn’t really expecting it. I’m thrilled to have this opportunity to have more contact time with the other players and coaches developing my game at this level.
“Rugby is what I’ve always wanted to do. I fell in love with it straight away, you always want to play at highest possible standard so I’m really happy I’ve got this opportunity”.
George made her Wales debut as a 17 year old in the 2017 Rugby World Cup.
She said: “That was huge for me, the biggest moment in my career so far. I went on to play in the Women’s Six Nations after that but after picking up some nasty ankle injuries last year, and not being picked in the autumn, I didn’t put too much pressure on myself, I just got my head down for my club and wanted to enjoy playing rugby again. Luckily that has worked out well for me.”
Lleucu’s attributes, especially her kicking abilities have turned heads in the Allianz Premier 15s this season.
“I grew up playing football first, I was a forward to start with in rugby so I’ve grown into the outside half role but kicking is one of the best parts of my game now so I try to utilise that as best I can. I’m enjoying playing 10 and hope to develop all elements of my game as we go into the Six Nations and Rugby World Cup.”
Lleucu has a coaching role with at Cardiff Met women’s side. “I’m really enjoying that and it means I have plenty of time to train too.”
Wales Women head coach Ioan Cunningham said: “We are pleased Lleucu has accepted a retainer contract. Her skills and potential are huge and with the Rugby World Cup around the corner, the additional contact time will help her to progress on all levels.”
